How Long Does a Forklift Battery Last?
Batteries of electric forklifts are expensive units which require proper maintenance and care to be able to ensure a long life. These industrial grade batteries are really big, heavy and expensive. The more efficient the battery, the more productive your machine operators could be. Extending the life span of the battery is a top priority, not just because of the cost of replacement, but also because of the cost of down time associated with battery problems.
Charging Cycles
Forklift batteries must be recharged just when they are at least 80% discharged. The rate of discharge varies depending upon various things like the average weight of loads, the number of shifts being worked and how many hours the forklift is being operated. For busy operations, charging every night might be needed. Nonetheless, don't forget that charging a battery very often will wear the battery more quickly.
Life Span
Typically, a brand new forklift battery will last at least 1,500 charge cycles. Hence, if the battery is being charged every day, the battery would last approximately five years. Nonetheless, this is an average estimate. The battery life span can be extended significantly beyond the average 1,500 charge cycles with proper maintenance.
Deep Discharge
Make certain that the forklift battery is never discharged totally. Not only can damage to the battery be caused by what is known as a "deep discharge", the forklift's electrical parts and motor could also sustain damage. This is because the battery which is damaged could change the amount of power being supplied to the forklift. The ability of the charger to communicate properly with the forklift battery can also be compromised. In a worst-case scenario, the compromised battery charger can not charge the battery completely, causing a destructive cycle of incomplete charges. A service technician may be needed to return the charger to good working order.